View full sizeRutgers class of 2014 offeree, Marcus ApplefieldPhoto provided by Applefield, used with permission

The left tackle position appears to be a position of concentration within the recruiting class of 2014 as the Scarlet Knights have offered another one. Next up is 6-7, 270-pounder, Marcus Applefield, a legend in his neck of the woods. Last month, the Weeki Wachee (Fla.) standout became the first player
from his school to receive an FBS scholarship offer when Marshall extended a tender.

"I feel honored to be the first person ever from my school to pick up a Division 1(A) offer," said Applefield. "It was a special moment in my life."

UMass followed Marshall with an offer, and Tuesday,
Rutgers became the third program to get in on the action.

"I received an offer from Rutgers, today," Applefield told
NJ.com. "We had been talking football for a little
while after Coach Panagos saw my tape."

Applefield and Panagos have
formulated a positive recruiting relationship based on their common interest in
the outdoors.

"We like to talk football, a lot," he said. "And we have a
lot of things in common, like fishing. I like to do anything: fish, hunt. As
long as I'm outside doing something competitive, I'm alright."

It was only right that Applefield found out about his
new Rutgers opportunity from the recruiter he has formulated a bond with, over the past couple weeks.

"Coach Panagos had my coach on the phone, and I happened to
be with my coach at the time," he said. "He pretty much just said, 'We are proud
to give you an offer and you've earned it.' It was really nice."

The Rutgers staff appreciates
the build and athleticism that Applefield possesses, according to the agile
offensive line prospect.

"They like that I'm lean and I'm good on my feet. I'm a lean
270 (pounds)," he said. "I'm really quick on my feet, so that gives me an
advantage over most linemen."

Although Applefield claims no favorites at this early point
in his recruitment, he feels there are a lot of things to like about the
Scarlet Knights.

"It's a nice school. I've been doing my research on it," he
said. "I know they have really nice facilities and most of the students there
are multicultural. And I like that they are big on family."

Applefield is also being recruited by USF, Toledo and Northwestern,
one of which will likely be next in line to offer. The star tackle has yet to
take any unofficial visits, although he plans to inspect the Rutgers campus in
the near future.

Education is, first and foremost, the most important
characteristic to Applefield when considering a collegiate institution.

"I want to get an education," said Applefield, who currently
carries a 3.5 core and 3.8 weighted grade point average, "and want to play for a good football team. And
I need for the team that I go to, to have a family atmosphere. That's what I
like most about Rutgers."